Best Italian Restaurants in Bilbao

Bilbao's Italian dining scene is thriving in ways that might surprise you. This Basque city, already famous for its pintxos and Michelin-starred restaurants, has embraced Italian cuisine with genuine passion and skill. What sets these spots apart isn't just authenticity – though you'll find proper Neapolitan pizza and house-made pasta in abundance – but the way they've woven Italian tradition into Bilbao's own sophisticated food culture. The result is Italian restaurants that feel both true to their roots and completely at home in this dynamic northern Spanish city.

We've rounded up 10 exceptional Italian restaurants that consistently earn rave reviews from locals and visitors alike. Every spot featured here boasts at least 4.5 stars, with an impressive average of 4.6 across thousands of reviews. From intimate pasta workshops to bustling pizzerias with non-stop kitchens, this guide covers the full spectrum of Italian dining experiences. Whether you're craving a perfectly charred pizza Margherita, silky fresh tagliatelle, or a leisurely multi-course feast, you'll find your match among these top-rated establishments that prove Bilbao does Italian exceptionally well.

Featured Restaurants

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COPPOLA & SOLOMONK (NON STOP KITCHEN)

★★★★☆

4.5

(3,467 reviews)

This bustling spot in Bilbao's Abando district has won over thousands of diners with its non-stop kitchen serving a diverse range of cuisines at mid-range prices. With an impressive 4.5-star rating from over 3,400 reviews, travelers consistently praise the reliable quality and flexibility of dining here any time hunger strikes. The non-stop service makes it perfect for those awkward hours between traditional Spanish meal times when most restaurants are closed.

Barraincúa Kalea, 6-4, Abando, 48009 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain

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Casa Leotta - Ajuriaguerra

★★★★☆

4.6

(2,325 reviews)

Nestled in Bilbao's elegant Abando district, Casa Leotta draws both locals and travelers with its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to varied tastes. With over 2,300 glowing reviews and a stellar 4.6-star rating, diners consistently praise the quality and value at this moderately priced gem. Arrive early during peak lunch and dinner hours, as this popular spot fills up quickly with those in the know.

Calle Juan Ajuriaguerra Kalea, 14, Abando, 48009 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain

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Demaio | Pizza Gourmet - San Francisco

★★★★☆

4.6

(2,180 reviews)

This beloved Bilbao pizzeria has won over locals and travelers alike with its gourmet approach to pizza, earning an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 2,000 diners who consistently praise the quality and creativity. The casual yet refined atmosphere makes it perfect for both quick bites and leisurely meals, with the high volume of reviews suggesting it's a reliable choice in the Ibaiondo neighborhood. Given its popularity and mid-range pricing, consider making a reservation or arriving during off-peak hours to snag a table without the wait.

San Frantzisko Kalea, 10, Ibaiondo, 48003 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain

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Pizzería Formaggi Bilbao

★★★★☆

4.8

(803 reviews)

This beloved Bilbao pizzeria has won over locals and travelers alike with its authentic Italian pies and welcoming atmosphere, as evidenced by an impressive 4.8-star rating from over 800 reviews. The budget-friendly prices make it perfect for casual dinners in the Abando neighborhood, where you can enjoy quality food without breaking the bank. Given its popularity and central location near Gran Vía, try to arrive early during peak dinner hours to snag a table without a wait.

Calle Gral. Concha, 26, Abando, 48010 Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain

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Demaio | Pizza Napoletana Contemporanea & Pasta Fresca - Jardines de Albia

★★★★☆

4.5

(485 reviews)

Located in the charming Jardines de Albia neighborhood, Demaio brings contemporary Neapolitan pizza and fresh pasta to the heart of Bilbao with a modern twist on Italian classics. With an impressive 4.5-star rating from nearly 500 reviews, travelers consistently praise the authentic flavors and welcoming atmosphere that make it feel like a local favorite rather than a tourist trap. Snag a table during off-peak hours if you can, as this popular spot tends to fill up quickly with both visitors and Bilbao residents who know quality Italian cuisine when they taste it.

Done Bikendi Kalea, 1, Abando, 48001 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain

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San Telmo Pastificio

★★★★☆

4.6

(462 reviews)

Tucked in Bilbao's Abando district, San Telmo Pastificio has earned an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 460 diners who rave about its welcoming atmosphere and quality Italian-inspired fare. The restaurant strikes that perfect balance between casual comfort and memorable dining, making it a reliable choice whether you're grabbing a quick lunch or settling in for dinner. Given its popularity and mid-range pricing, consider booking ahead during peak evening hours to snag a table at this local favorite.

Alameda de Recalde, 58, Abando, 48009 Bilbao, Vizcaya, Spain

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Casa Leotta - Pozas

★★★★☆

4.7

(399 reviews)

Casa Leotta in Bilbao's Abando district has earned its stellar 4.7-star rating from nearly 400 reviewers thanks to its welcoming atmosphere and diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Travelers consistently praise this moderately priced gem for delivering quality food without breaking the bank, making it a reliable choice whether you're craving local flavors or international cuisine. Book ahead if possible, as its popularity with both locals and visitors means tables fill up quickly, especially during peak dining hours.

Poza Lizentziatuaren Kalea, 43, Abando, 48009 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain

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